Serum concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-alpha in neonatal calves with presumed septicemia

This study was performed to determine the concentrations of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) in the serum of neonatal calves with presumed sepsis and determine the correlation between serum concentrations of TNF and the severity and outcome of disease. Thirty-five sick calves < 30 days old that suffered from enteritis, respiratory disease, or both were considered suitable for inclusion in this study by satisfying clinical and laboratory criteria suggestive of septicemia. At admission, blood samples were collected from all calves to determine the prevalence of high concentrations of TNF. The clinical course and outcome of disease then were recorded. Of the 35 calves with presumed sepsis, 10 had high serum TNF concentrations. Scleral injection, weak or absent suckling reflex, sternal or lateral recumbency, unresponsive or comatose state, and death rate of calves with high serum TNF concentration were greater than those values for calves without high serum TNF concentration. Calves with high serum TNF concentration had significantly lower mean IgG (P < .001), globulin (P < .0001), and calcium (P < .0001) concentrations; greater serum creatinine concentrations (P < .0001); and > or = 2+ toxic changes in neutrophils than did calves without high serum TNF concentrations. Mean values for packed cell volume, band neutrophil count, and venous Pco2 were significantly (P < .007) higher in the group of calves with high serum TNF concentration. Results of this study indicate that serum TNF concentration is correlated with clinical criteria of sepsis in neonatal calves. A close association was apparent between disease severity and serum TNF concentrations in this group of calves with presumed septicemia.